Our product range includes a variety of suction cups with various shapes, sizes and materials, providing the right suction cup for every application. Suction cups consist of a elastomer part and a connection nipple.

Special grippers can be used for applications in which regular suction pads cannot generate a vacuum. Schmalz offers a variety of special grippers with various shapes, sizes and principles of operation.

Area gripping systems and end effectors are gripping systems that can be attached directly on the robot. Area grippers are universal and are used in a huge range of robot applications. Vacuum end effectors are easy to configure from the modular system. They are particularly suitable for processes in the packaging industry.

Vacuum generators provide the required vacuum. The vacuum is generated either pneumatically (ejectors) or electrically (pumps, blowers). Pneumatic vacuum generators implement short cycle times and can be integrated directly into the system due to their compact and lightweight design. Ejectors offer intelligent functions for energy and process control. Electrical vacuum generators are used in applications when compressed air is not available or if very high suction capacities are required.

With certified courses, seminars and customer-specific training sessions on all topics within vacuum technology and efficiency, Schmalz provides expertise that is tailored to the exact requirements of your company.

When parts need to be stored safely at a specific location, these wall storage shelves are indispensable. The long service life of the many storage shelves that have been delivered speaks for their durability and high quality.

If you want to clamp and process small work pieces without damage, you are at the right place. You have the additional option of implementing controlled vacuum generators to save energy and reduce noise.

The work benches were developed to allow you to clamp workpieces of a wide range of different materials. You have the additional option of implementing controlled vacuum generators to save energy and reduce noise.

Vacuum clamping technology for wood processing is essential for efficiently setting up console table, grid table and flat table systems. Existing machining centers can be easily modernized with the Innospann clamping system. The Schmalz clamping equipment lets you clamp both narrow workpieces and workpieces made from solid wood. The Multi-Clamp is the perfect tool for manual fixing of small and medium-sized workpieces.

Whether using a 1-circuit or 2-circuit system, panel processing or frame production – console vacuum blocks from Schmalz can be positioned precisely and are quick and easy to replace when changing the order. Choose from our comprehensive program of high-quality vacuum blocks and spare parts in original equipment manufacturer quality.

Schmalz vacuum blocks for grid tables enable simple and flexible use; without complex installation. The non-slip fixings enable secure clamping of the workpieces even with high processing forces. This makes them ideal for complex five-axis applications without a wear plate.

Schmalz clamping solutions enable the quick and uncomplicated setup of CNC machining centers with flat table. First the vacuum blocks and then the workpiece are fixed for machine processing via two independent vacuum circuits. Schmalz provides vacuum blocks with a hose connection for universal flat tables and a hose-free version for flat aluminum tables with an integrated vacuum distribution.

The vacuum clamping system Innospann enables every CNC machining center to be retrofitted independently of manufacturer and type. Modernization facilitates quick and flexible retrofitting following frequent product changes - for efficient manufacturing processes starting from one-piece production. Schmalz thus provides an economic alternative to investment in a new machine.

Very narrow and curved parts can be clamped easily and reliably with mechanical clamps and Adapter-Plates from Schmalz. Narrow suction surfaces enable the precise positioning of the vacuum block along the workpiece contours, holding the workpiece in place. The workpiece is mechanically clamped firmly in place using the clamp.

Schmalz vacuum clamping technology provides an efficient solution for clamping workpieces made from solid wood. The clamping equipment lets you process workpieces on consoles with single and two-circuit vacuum systems quickly and safely.

The vacuum clamping system Multi-Clamp is the perfect tool for quick and flexible clamping of small and medium-sized workpieces. They can be fixed in any position and processed all-round. The Multi-Clamp is portable and can be used in a variety of industrial, workshop and building-site contexts.

The Schmalz Matrix-Plate guarantees minimal set-up times when clamping flat workpieces with flat undersides on CNC machining centers. Using the vacuum clamping system, even components that are difficult to clamp mechanically can be secured precisely, quickly and without distortion. Flexibility is increased again when combined with the Innospann Steel-Plate. Productivity and set-up times can be further optimized, particularly when workpieces are changed frequently.

Components which are difficult to clamp mechanically can be clamped easily, quickly, without distortion and precisely. The Matrix-Plate can be secured quickly on the machine table with the aid of clamping claws or a zero-point clamping system.
Vacuum table, vacuum chuck

Workpieces with uneven, rounded or curved contours present a new challenge for clamping technology. With the Schmalz Basic Holding Fixture, complex components for CNC machining and measurement processes can be clamped without a problem. With the Suction Cup Balance SSCB, Schmalz has developed both a clamping system with precise positioning for 3D free-form surfaces and a gripping system equipped for automatic setup and simultaneous gripping.

The vacuum generation contributes significantly to process reliability when clamping workpieces on CNC machining centers. Schmalz has developed vacuum generators specially to meet the demands in the metal and glass working industry. These systems not only prepare the material, but also monitor and separate liquids or chips that have been sucked in.

Our product range includes a variety of suction cups with various shapes, sizes and materials, providing the right suction cup for every application. Suction cups consist of a elastomer part and a connection nipple.

Special grippers can be used for applications in which regular suction pads cannot generate a vacuum. Schmalz offers a variety of special grippers with various shapes, sizes and principles of operation.

Area gripping systems and end effectors are gripping systems that can be attached directly on the robot. Area grippers are universal and are used in a huge range of robot applications. Vacuum end effectors are easy to configure from the modular system. They are particularly suitable for processes in the packaging industry.

Vacuum generators provide the required vacuum. The vacuum is generated either pneumatically (ejectors) or electrically (pumps, blowers). Pneumatic vacuum generators implement short cycle times and can be integrated directly into the system due to their compact and lightweight design. Ejectors offer intelligent functions for energy and process control. Electrical vacuum generators are used in applications when compressed air is not available or if very high suction capacities are required.

With certified courses, seminars and customer-specific training sessions on all topics within vacuum technology and efficiency, Schmalz provides expertise that is tailored to the exact requirements of your company.

When parts need to be stored safely at a specific location, these wall storage shelves are indispensable. The long service life of the many storage shelves that have been delivered speaks for their durability and high quality.

If you want to clamp and process small work pieces without damage, you are at the right place. You have the additional option of implementing controlled vacuum generators to save energy and reduce noise.

The work benches were developed to allow you to clamp workpieces of a wide range of different materials. You have the additional option of implementing controlled vacuum generators to save energy and reduce noise.

Vacuum clamping technology for wood processing is essential for efficiently setting up console table, grid table and flat table systems. Existing machining centers can be easily modernized with the Innospann clamping system. The Schmalz clamping equipment lets you clamp both narrow workpieces and workpieces made from solid wood. The Multi-Clamp is the perfect tool for manual fixing of small and medium-sized workpieces.

Whether using a 1-circuit or 2-circuit system, panel processing or frame production – console vacuum blocks from Schmalz can be positioned precisely and are quick and easy to replace when changing the order. Choose from our comprehensive program of high-quality vacuum blocks and spare parts in original equipment manufacturer quality.

Schmalz vacuum blocks for grid tables enable simple and flexible use; without complex installation. The non-slip fixings enable secure clamping of the workpieces even with high processing forces. This makes them ideal for complex five-axis applications without a wear plate.

Schmalz clamping solutions enable the quick and uncomplicated setup of CNC machining centers with flat table. First the vacuum blocks and then the workpiece are fixed for machine processing via two independent vacuum circuits. Schmalz provides vacuum blocks with a hose connection for universal flat tables and a hose-free version for flat aluminum tables with an integrated vacuum distribution.

The vacuum clamping system Innospann enables every CNC machining center to be retrofitted independently of manufacturer and type. Modernization facilitates quick and flexible retrofitting following frequent product changes - for efficient manufacturing processes starting from one-piece production. Schmalz thus provides an economic alternative to investment in a new machine.

Very narrow and curved parts can be clamped easily and reliably with mechanical clamps and Adapter-Plates from Schmalz. Narrow suction surfaces enable the precise positioning of the vacuum block along the workpiece contours, holding the workpiece in place. The workpiece is mechanically clamped firmly in place using the clamp.

Schmalz vacuum clamping technology provides an efficient solution for clamping workpieces made from solid wood. The clamping equipment lets you process workpieces on consoles with single and two-circuit vacuum systems quickly and safely.

The vacuum clamping system Multi-Clamp is the perfect tool for quick and flexible clamping of small and medium-sized workpieces. They can be fixed in any position and processed all-round. The Multi-Clamp is portable and can be used in a variety of industrial, workshop and building-site contexts.

The Schmalz Matrix-Plate guarantees minimal set-up times when clamping flat workpieces with flat undersides on CNC machining centers. Using the vacuum clamping system, even components that are difficult to clamp mechanically can be secured precisely, quickly and without distortion. Flexibility is increased again when combined with the Innospann Steel-Plate. Productivity and set-up times can be further optimized, particularly when workpieces are changed frequently.

Components which are difficult to clamp mechanically can be clamped easily, quickly, without distortion and precisely. The Matrix-Plate can be secured quickly on the machine table with the aid of clamping claws or a zero-point clamping system.
Vacuum table, vacuum chuck

Workpieces with uneven, rounded or curved contours present a new challenge for clamping technology. With the Schmalz Basic Holding Fixture, complex components for CNC machining and measurement processes can be clamped without a problem. With the Suction Cup Balance SSCB, Schmalz has developed both a clamping system with precise positioning for 3D free-form surfaces and a gripping system equipped for automatic setup and simultaneous gripping.

The vacuum generation contributes significantly to process reliability when clamping workpieces on CNC machining centers. Schmalz has developed vacuum generators specially to meet the demands in the metal and glass working industry. These systems not only prepare the material, but also monitor and separate liquids or chips that have been sucked in.

Schmalz Vacuum Components Allow Efficient Handling of Sheet Metal

In order to load metal sheets into presses quickly and reliably, you need to have a good grip of the situation. This is why Swiss material flow specialist Güdel AG relies on Schmalz vacuum components: Powerful vacuum grippers combined with intelligent vacuum generators make for short machining times. During machining, the vacuum generators record relevant process data and make it available via a range of communication channels. This allows Güdel to lay the foundations for predictive maintenance, thus preventing costly downtime.

From left: Adrian Stauffer, General Manager for Press Automation and Member of the Management Board at Güdel AG; Christian Landis, Managing Director of Schmalz GmbH; and Maarten Westerholt, Sales Engineer for Press Automation at Güdel AG, standing in front of a roboSpeed sheet metal handling system

From its humble beginnings as a mechanical engineering firm in Langenthal, Canton of Bern, Güdel AG has grown to become a global player with more than 1100 employees. It first started taking a greater interest in handling and material flow solutions for a variety of industrial sectors back in the 1990s, and press automation is an important part of this field. "Based on a modular system of linear, drive and system components that we have developed ourselves, we produce docking-ready subsystems and complete solutions including control systems, so our customers can get everything they need from a single source," explains Adrian Stauffer, General Manager for Press Automation. Güdel plants carry out the unstacking and feeding of unmachined metal sheets, the handling between the presses and the output of sheet metal parts.

Goal: Short cycle times and high process reliability

When it comes to the machining of metal sheets, speed is also essential. In order to achieve short cycle times and high process reliability, the sheet metal parts must be gripped quickly and securely, transported reliably and positioned precisely. These requirements also apply to systems such as the Güdel roboSpeed, which has proven successful in sectors such as the automotive industry. It can move parts weighing up to 100 kg with high acceleration – a feat that places special demands on vacuum technology elements such as vacuum generators and grippers. Güdel works closely with vacuum specialist Schmalz in order to overcome these challenges.

"Our vacuum technology products are tailored to the requirements of the sheet metal handling sector," explains Christian Landis, Managing Director of Schmalz Switzerland. "For example, our SXMPi compact ejectors are specially designed for handling airtight workpieces under extreme conditions. They generate the necessary vacuum quickly and precisely, and are perfect for applications that require short cycle times." The ejectors are equipped with a range of functions for energy and process control, allowing the user to monitor and optimize the process at any time. For example, one particular preventive maintenance function measures the flow resistance and air-tightness in the gripping system. It thus detects changes in the conditions, such as leakages and dirt, at an early stage so that potential causes of faults can be identified in good time. This allows maintenance to be performed before unscheduled downtime occurs, which would otherwise entail high costs. As such, it provides great added value for Güdel's customers.

The condition and energy monitoring functions are also worth their weight in gold to Güdel customers. The latter optimizes the energy balance of vacuum systems: The ejector improves efficiency right from the start of operations, recording the current consumption as a real value. The system then indicates when this level gets too high so that the user can introduce countermeasures in plenty of time. Meanwhile, the condition monitoring function improves plant availability. The ejectors constantly monitor function-related process parameters, such as air-tightness and operating pressure. Detailed condition analyses then provide early warning of fault sources.

Another factor that is crucial to ensuring that the sheets are transported reliably is the vacuum gripper. "Our vacuum grippers provide high holding forces, even on oily surfaces," reports Christian Landis. "They act as the interface between the handling system and the sheet metal part." The SAXM vacuum grippers stand out due to their impressive holding forces, and can move even heavy sheets with speed and precision. They have a very high suction cup stroke and can adapt to different workpiece contours. Thanks to their sturdy design and the hard-wearing Elastodur material used to make them, they come with a very long service life. The unique texture on the inside of the suction cups and a special friction disc ensure optimum absorption of shear forces, even when the metal sheets in question have been oiled.

Intelligent functions for reliable machining

Güdel is highly satisfied with its Schmalz products. "We can achieve fast cycles and reliable positioning with good repeatability, even for very heavy metal sheets," says Adrian Stauffer. He is also pleased with the diagnostic options: "These functions give our customers a greater sense of business security and protect them from unwanted—and expensive—surprises, such as plant downtimes.

Güdel sees itself as a technological pioneer, and is very exacting in its choice of project partners. "Schmalz is one of the market leaders in vacuum technology—particularly in the field of comprehensive plant monitoring using intelligent diagnostic functions—and this is of huge benefit to us," Stauffer explains. If a problem occurs, Schmalz reacts very quickly and provides a highly capable contact person to handle the situation. "We always operate on equal footing, because we are familiar with the wishes and requirements of our customers," the MD concludes.